President Hassan Rouhani described the government's nationwide urban reconstruction scheme as a plan to renovate old neighborhoods and provide housing for young couples seeking to buy their first house.

Speaking at the ceremony to launch 'Omid' Nationwide Plan for Urban Reconstruction on Thursday, President Rouhani said the most important principle that the government must seek in the housing sector is safeguarding people's lives and wellbeing, president.ir reported.

Underlining that people living in old houses must be easily provided durable and safe housing, he said: "Houses with 20 percent more floor area will be given to everyone living in old houses."

He further stated that housing must incorporate Iranian culture and social traditions, adding that reconstruction of old houses must be neighborhood-based.

The government is not a good business entity and constructor so everything must be handed over to people, said Rouhani adding public businesses must be handed over to the people.

He also said: "In addition to reconstruction of houses, the quality of living in neighborhoods will also go up."